Stalking bill passes first reading

A bill that makes stalking a specific offence with a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment has passed its first reading in Parliament.

“Existing harassment laws haven’t kept pace with trends in this dangerous area,” Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said. “Since I announced this bill, many victims and advocates have talked about the need to have this law in place as soon as possible.”

The bill outlines a list of behaviours that can constitute stalking and harassment, including damaging reputation, recording or tracking and following or loitering as well as the use of technology in modern stalking methods.

The bill will be reviewed by the Justice Select Committee, with a report due on June 25, and Goldsmith encouraged interested parties to make submissions.